MONTGOMERY - The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) has banned the sale of poultry due to concerns about avian influenza. ADAI Commissioner John McMillan on Wednesday issued an order (see below) banning the sale, exhibition or transportation of all types of poultry:

Due to the recent confirmation of Avian Influenza in the State of Tennessee and with three investigations of avian influenza in north Alabama, it is hereby ordered that all poultry exhibitions in the State of Alabama are prohibited until this order is lifted by the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI). In addition, the concentration, collection, or assembly of poultry of all types, including waterfowl and wild and exotic birds, from one or more premises, at a private or public place, for purposes of sale is prohibited until this order is lifted by ADAI. This includes, but is not limited to, poultry exhibitions or sales at regional and county fairs, festivals, swap meets, exotic sales and live bird markets, flea markets and auctions.

The ban follows Tuesday's Stop Movement Order, issued by McMillan and State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier, on certain types of poultry in Alabama.

Cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in Tennessee, and are being investigated in the north Alabama counties of Jackson, Lauderdale and Madison.

The ADAI says no affected birds have entered the food chain.

Questions should be directed to the ADAI Poultry Division at 334-240-6584.